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Dr Kathryn Hall, the study’s lead author, said: “If the research is validated it would be logical to test before giving aspirin.”

In the US, aspirin can be prescribed to stop people having their first heart attack or stroke. In the UK, however, it is prescribed only to help stop another episode in those who have already suffered.

Professor Jeremy Pearson of the British Heart Foundation said further research is needed and warned: “Anyone prescribed aspirin should continue to take them as advised by their doctor.”